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What Should I do on my Trip to Oahu?

Malcolm Tatum
By
Updated May 17, 2024
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Sometimes known as one of the true jewels of the Hawaiian Islands, the island of Oahu has a lot to offer. Whether your trip to Oahu is a family vacation, business trip, or just a change to get away by yourself for a change of scenery, there are plenty of activities to enjoy. Here are a few examples of things that should be part of any trip to Oahu.

For family vacations, a visit to the Honolulu Zoo and Waikiki Aquarium is a must. While sometimes overlooked by many tourists, this attraction holds the distinction of being the third oldest US aquarium that is open to the public. The facility also is housed on land that was formally in control of Hawaiian royalty, and was bestowed on the citizens of the Islands for their use. With programs and exhibits that tell the story of the Pacific and the rich variations on aquatic life in the area, both children and adults will find it easy to spend hours at this attraction.

No visit to Oahu is complete without touring the Polynesian Cultural Center. Considered by some to be the most popular of all attractions, the Center sports forty-two acres of beautifully cultivated landscape that allows visitors to learn about the history of Hawaii. Along with getting to know about the role of the royal family in the history of the Islands, tourists also are treated to traditional foods, the chance to attend luaus, and even to learn and see Island entertainment such as hula dancing.

The Pearl Harbor and Arizona Memorial continues to draw people from all over the world. Dedicated to the memory of the over one thousand American military personnel that lost their lives at the site, the Memorial evokes strong reactions from even visitors who were not alive at the time of the bombing. Close to two million people visit the site each year.

If hiking is your thing, a trip to Makapuu Point is a must during your stay on Oahu. Hiking to the point will usually take an hour each way, and includes some of the most beautiful scenery that one can imagine. Many visitors choose to make the hike near sunrise or sunset, as the Point offers a view that is especially breathtaking at those times of day.

Along with sites to see, Oahu also offers plenty of shopping, nightlife and fun in the sun to round out your visit. Make sure to contact the Board of Tourism for information and suggestions for other great activities to enjoy during your stay on Oahu.

WiseGeek is dedicated to providing accurate and trustworthy information. We carefully select reputable sources and employ a rigorous fact-checking process to maintain the highest standards. To learn more about our commitment to accuracy, read our editorial process.
Malcolm Tatum
By Malcolm Tatum , Writer
Malcolm Tatum, a former teleconferencing industry professional, followed his passion for trivia, research, and writing to become a full-time freelance writer. He has contributed articles to a variety of print and online publications, including WiseGeek, and his work has also been featured in poetry collections, devotional anthologies, and newspapers. When not writing, Malcolm enjoys collecting vinyl records, following minor league baseball, and cycling.
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Discussion Comments

By somerset — On May 12, 2008

Another good place to visit while on Oahu is Hanauma bay. It is a spectacular bay, with reefs and an abundance of colorful tropical fish. It is a great place to snorkel and observe under water life. You might be lucky and see humuhumunukunukuapua'a while snorkeling, Hawaii's state fish.

The bay is a protected area, and it's goal is to preserve and protect the delicate marine life. It is visited by millions of people every year, all of whom have to go through a short educational presentation about life and preservation of this uniquely beautiful bay. Definitely a must see while in Hawaii.

By somerset — On Feb 10, 2008

I hiked to Makapuu Point numerous times, and it takes my breath away each time I reach the top. The view of the windward side of Oahu is nothing short of spectacular.

On one of my hikes I was fortunate enough to view Humpback Whales frolicking in the warm waters of the Pacific. As they were swimming, they performed their acrobatics, throwing better parts of their bodies out of the water and than coming down with a thunderous splash, the sound of which would reach us at Makapuu Point a bit later. It is one of the attractions that hikers are looking for, but not counting on it. There must be numerous reasons for that, but one of them is that if the waters are rough it is difficult to see the whales.

The whales are in that region of Hawaii during winter months, something like from December through March.

Malcolm Tatum

Malcolm Tatum

Writer

Malcolm Tatum, a former teleconferencing industry professional, followed his passion for trivia, research, and writing...
Learn more
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